Moment tensor event identification for collapses

Journal Article · 27 June 2023 · Geophysical Journal International

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1093/gji/ggad258 · OSTI ID:1989417

Pasyanos, Michael E. ; Ichinose, Gene A. ; Ford, Sean R.

SUMMARY We introduce a seismic identification method for collapse events using moment tensors (MTs). We start by computing full (six-element) MT solutions for 43 identified collapse events from around the world, and statistically characterizing the population on the MT hypersphere. We then test a large data set of over 1000 full MTs for the western U.S. against the distribution of collapses using a MT-based identification method similarly as used for testing explosions. Known collapses and explosions are readily identified, along with other anomalous events in the Geysers and central California coast. Misidentification rates are determined for various screening angles with optimal misidentification rates between earthquakes and collapses on the order of 3 per cent. The method is demonstrated to be very effective at identifying non-earthquake sources with a 97–98 per cent accuracy. It is likely to be transportable to other regions, and can be used for event identification anywhere full MT solutions are routinely calculated.

• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA); USDOE National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA), Office of Defense Nuclear Nonproliferation; USDOE Office of Electricity (OE), Advanced Grid Research & Development. Power Systems Engineering Research
• OSTI ID: 1989417
• Journal Information: Geophysical Journal International, Journal Name: Geophysical Journal International Journal Issue: 1 Vol. 235; ISSN 0956-540X
• Publisher: Oxford University PressCopyright Statement
• Country of Publication: United Kingdom
• Language: English